Gasoline (1 liter) | USD 1.29 |
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in city centre | USD 1 253.72 |
Utilities (Electricity, Heating, ...) for medium apartment | USD 108.82 |
1 min. of prepaid mobile tariff | USD 0.14 |
Mid-range restaurant | USD 24.82 |
Taxi 1km | USD 0.83 |
Chicken breasts at the market | USD 5.00 |
1 Pair of Jeans | USD 45.00 |
Lettuce | USD 0.80 |
Loaf of white bread | USD 2.18 |
Pakse is one of the biggest towns in Southern Laos. Although tourists would not make a direct visit since it has very little to offer for one great trip, it is often used as a starting point for touring Si Phan Don, Bolaven Plateau, and Wat Phou. There are cheap flights to Pakse, international flights at that. From there, the other tourist spots are very accessible. There is a slow boat service to Si Phan Don for example.
While in Pakse and before you head to more exciting trails ahead, it is best that you explore this humble city and discover its greatest gem – its culture. The best places to visit here are mostly the temples. There is Wat Luang, which is the largest and most beautiful temple in the city. It is also a place to see a monk in a ceremony. Wat Phabad is another point of interest. It is the oldest temple in Pakse and has with it some old allures in terms of architecture. It is also believed to have a Buddha footprint, making it a must-visit, whenever you are in Laos.
There is nothing much to do in Pakse. You can get around the key attractions using a motorbike for rent. Or you may also choose to ride a tuk tuk, which charges minimal fare. Aside from simply going around, you may also go bowling, have a relaxing and rejuvenating massage, or eat in food joints that you can find. There are various restaurants in town serving different cuisines including Lao, Thai, Indian, Italian, and Vietnamese. Some of the must-visit food hubs include Jasmin Restaurant, Daolin, Lan Kham Noodle House, Bolaven Café, Pizza Boy, and Royal Pakse Hotel.
Unfortunately, hotels in Pakse are considerably expensive and are mostly fully booked. It is advisable that when you book for cheap flights to Pakse, you also start scouting for a nice place to stay, complete with a reasonable price tag. Arawan Hotel is one of the best choices you have because they have deluxe rooms that are reasonably priced and definitely worth the money. With its good location, you will not get hurt paying $35 per night or more.